Aerothermal simulation and power potential of a solar updraft power plant

Abstract

In this paper we develop a theoretical model for calculating the steady inviscid flow subjected to solar radiation at the collector of a solar updraft power plant. The result was a set of nonlinear equation describing the transformation of the solar radiation into heat-flux of the collector airflow. Iterative scheme was employed in order to solve the equation for mass flow rate and temperatures, for which computer codes were developed. A comparison of simulation results with the Manzanares prototype experimental data was performed; demonstrating good agreement between the two. Computed power for selected locations in Japan was also demonstrated for potential application of a solar updraft power plant.